Montana State Routs UNLV in High-Scoring Women’s Basketball Showdown

BOZEMAN, Mont. (Interstat) — In a high-octane offensive showcase, the Montana State Bobcats remained undefeated Tuesday night, handing the visiting UNLV Runnin’ Rebels a decisive 94-81 defeat in a non-conference women’s basketball game at a spirited Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.

A crowd of 1,777 watched as the Bobcats, fueled by a dominant second-quarter run and a relentless attack on both ends of the floor, improved their record to 4-0. The loss dropped UNLV to an even 2-2 on the young season.

The game was a tale of contrasting efficiencies. While the final score was high, Montana State’s victory was built on superior shot creation and volume. The Bobcats attempted a staggering 79 field goals, connecting on 33, including 13 from beyond the arc. UNLV, by contrast, managed only 28 field goal attempts, making 11, though they were an efficient 4 of 8 from three-point range.

Montana State’s offensive engine was forward Addison Harris. The 6-foot-1 sophomore from Camas, Washington, poured in a game-high 26 points in just 28 minutes of action, showcasing her scoring prowess both inside and out. She was complemented by guard Taylee Chirrick of Roberts, Montana, who added 16 points and was a disruptive force on defense.

The Bobcats seized control of the game in the second quarter. After a tightly contested first period that ended with Montana State holding a slim 20-17 lead, the home team erupted. They outscored UNLV 27-20 in the frame, stretching their lead to double digits by halftime and never truly looking back. A key 10-0 run midway through the quarter, punctuated by a three-pointer from Harris and a transition layup, broke the game open.

UNLV showed resilience, mounting a significant challenge in the third quarter by posting their highest-scoring period with 29 points. Guard Aaliyah Alexander led the charge for the Runnin’ Rebels, finishing with a team-high 18 points. Forward Meadow Roland, a 6-foot-2 presence from Fresno, California, contributed 13 points and was a force defensively with four blocked shots. Guard Mariah Elohim also chipped in 15 points for UNLV.

However, every time the Runnin’ Rebels threatened to close the gap, Montana State had an answer, often from deep. The Bobcats’ ball movement was exceptional, leading to 17 assists, and their defensive pressure generated 17 steals, which they converted into 21 points off turnovers. Jamison Philip orchestrated the offense with seven assists for the Bobcats.

The rebounding battle was decisively won by Montana State, who hauled in 21 offensive rebounds that led to numerous second-chance opportunities and a 40-30 advantage in points in the paint. Teagan Erickson provided a significant spark off the bench for the Bobcats, scoring 13 points and swatting two shots.

Despite committing fewer turnovers, nine to Montana State’s 11, UNLV could not overcome the Bobcats’ overwhelming possession advantage and shooting volume. The Runnin’ Rebels’ offense, while efficient when they got a shot off, was stifled by Montana State’s active hands and defensive rotations.

The victory extends Montana State’s strong start to the season as they prepare for a road test at Troy on Monday. UNLV will look to rebound on the road Saturday when they face Arizona State.